LeBron James injury update/ Lakers vs. Grizzlies recap/ LeBron comeback game/ NBA highlights/ JJ Redick on LeBron/ LOS ANGELES/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ LeBron James returned to the court Sunday night after missing two games with a foot injury, scoring 18 points to help the Los Angeles Lakers secure a 116-110 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. James added eight rebounds and eight assists in his 34-minute performance, contributing to the team’s bounce-back win.
LeBron James’ Comeback: Quick Looks
- Strong Return: LeBron scored 18 points, with eight rebounds and assists each, helping the Lakers defeat Memphis.
- Time Off: James missed two games due to a foot injury and personal reasons, using the time to reset physically and mentally.
- Historical Milestone: The 22-year veteran is tied for most NBA seasons played and remains the league’s oldest active player at 39.
- Team Impact: Coach JJ Redick praised James’ ability to maintain elite performance despite the demands of his long career.
- Season Performance: James is averaging 23 points, 9.1 assists, and eight rebounds this season with seven triple-doubles.
LeBron James Scores 18 in Lakers’ Win After Two-Game Absence
Deep Look
LeBron’s Performance Against the Grizzlies
LeBron James returned to action Sunday night, guiding the Los Angeles Lakers to a 116-110 win over the Memphis Grizzlies. After being sidelined for two games, James contributed 18 points, eight rebounds, eight assists, and five turnovers in 34 minutes.
“I felt pretty good,” James said after the game. “I was able to take advantage of the schedule and give my body and mind a much-needed reset.”
The Lakers announced James’ availability just 45 minutes before tip-off, upgrading his status from questionable to active.
Taking Time to Recover
James’ absence was described as an excused break for personal reasons, coupled with ongoing management of left foot pain. Coach JJ Redick confirmed that he and James discussed the decision to rest before last Sunday’s game against Portland.
“At this point in his career, it’s about longevity and making sure he’s ready when it matters most,” Redick said. “He’s earned the ability to listen to his body.”
James, who turns 40 on December 30, is the NBA’s oldest active player and tied with Vince Carter for the most seasons played at 22. Despite his age, he remains a cornerstone of the Lakers’ success.
Rehab and Training During His Absence
James spent his time away rehabbing his foot and maintaining his fitness.
“It was an easy decision for myself, the team, and my trainer to take these days,” James said. “It was great to come back and feel good on the court.”
Sustaining Excellence
Coach Redick drew comparisons between James and other legendary athletes like Tom Brady and Roger Federer, emphasizing the difficulty of sustaining elite performance over decades.
“I played 15 years, and I was fried,” Redick said. “Guys like LeBron are different—they defy the limits of physical and mental endurance.”
Season Stats and Highlights
James has been pivotal for the Lakers this season, averaging 23 points, 9.1 assists, and eight rebounds per game. His seven triple-doubles rank second in the NBA, behind Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets.
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